A special message from Janet Lorenzon, Executive Director, Artman.
“Collaboration is when magic is made by more than one person.”
~ Michael Urie, actor, director and producer ~
You couldn’t find a more apt saying in regard to our epic mosaic project, The Seasons of Our Lives. Over the last year, this exceptional endeavor has brought together residents, families, staff, and community friends who have been joining their creative energy to develop a timeless masterpiece.
You can find them gleefully absorbed in rolling and cutting clay, molding tiles, imprinting designs, and painting on dazzling color once their handiwork is fired in a kiln. Side-by-side they work—residents, their children, and grandchildren, student groups and staff, youngsters and the young-at-heart.
It is solely because of the kindness of our donors that we’ve been able to embark on this project, which continues to bring joy to so many people—especially our residents. Even after the last mosaic panel is installed, the fellowship, fulfillment, and vitality of this shared endeavor will long be remembered.
“Many pieces have come together to make the whole and there’s just been so much imagination. It’s amazing what residents have come up with—things I wouldn’t even think of such as new ways to handle the tools or new ways to look at the clay. It’s been wonderful!” says Katia McGuirk, the professional ceramic artist who is spearheading the project.
Like Katia, family members have been delighted to see how the making of the mosaic has awakened or rekindled creativity within their loved ones. “Mom is an artist and to do a project like this is really exciting. It’s really nice to know this is something that’s going to be so lasting,” says one resident’s daughter. Another family echoes this sentiment, saying, “It makes us feel good that Mom is such a part of this and really enjoying it. And, she’s getting good therapy on her hands!”
One family witnessed an unexpected, but very pleasant surprise. “Before Dad came to Artman he would have had no interest in doing something like this—but he’s enjoying it! He’s using his hands and making some pretty cool things.”
It is your kind interest and support that has helped us to so far raise $29,000 to fund the making of this extraordinary mosaic. We’ve now reached the final leg of this beloved project and need to raise just $15,000 more so that our community can enjoy this artistic treasure for years to come.